A gilded guest list featuring aristocrats and fashionistas at Spanish high society nuptials

October 19, 2010 - 20:13 CESThellomagazine.comValentino and Eva Herzigova were among the glitterati that toasted Rafael, Duke of Feria when he wed his love

The historic city of Toledo was converted into an haute couture catwalk as a parade of stylish guests came together to witness the high society wedding of the year in Spain.

A Cavalli-clad Eva Herzigova, said to be expecting her second child, was on hand as Rafael Medina, Duke of Feria pledged himself to Laura Vecino in the magnificent 16th-century Tavera Palace.

Along with his younger brother Luis, the 32-year-old groom, was one of the country's most eligible bachelors and regularly features on international best dressed lists.

And his mother, former model Naty Abascal, is one of the best connected figures in social circles.

So the dazzling 650-strong guest list - including Carolina Herrera, the daughter of the Venezuelan designer of the same name, Argentine model Valeria Mazza and fashion legend Valentino - reflected their standing.

Click on photos for gallery

Even more highly anticipated, of course, was the arrival of the bride, who is a creative director at Mango.

Breathtakingly radiant in a unique Giambattista Valli design, she drew gasps of admiration as she swept up the aisle of the chapel, attended by five flower girls and two page boys.

Based on a gown once worn by Marie Antoinette, the creation featured a tulle underlay and a voluminous skirt in heavy silk brocade.

She also wore a tiara that has been in the groom's family for generations.

The dazzling pearl and diamante headpiece was loaned to her especially by Rafael's grandmother, the Duchess of Medinaceli, who at 93 was too fragile to make the journey from her home in Seville.

Laura's regal look was completed by diamante flower-shaped earrings and a bracelet that was worn by her mother on her own wedding day.

During her special day, which features exclusively in this week's HOLA! magazine, she carried two bouquets - one of which the couple left the following day at the final resting place of his late father.

In fact, they chose the location because Rafael Medina senior is buried in the chapel.

After they said their 'I dos', the dashing groom, who wore a morning suit by his own fashion company Scalpers, placed a simple gold band on his bride's finger, before kissing her hand in a chivalrous gesture.

Then it was time for a wedding banquet that started in the spectacular courtyard, topped by 48 arches before moving on to the magnificent cloisters.

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